Current F-150's are all aluminum.
I recently purchased a 2021 Ranger XLT sport 4 x 4. While washing it last week I noticed a factory paint flaw. The color is carbonized grey metallic. The flaw is only noticeable under certain light conditions. Here are some pictures so you can see exactly what I am talking about. As you can see in the pics it’s a vertical line that appears to be darker than the paint job itself. under certain light conditions you can barely see it unless you know where to look for it. It’s under the clearcoat. When I took it up to the Ford body shop to have them look at it to see what could be done they say the only option is to break the factory paint seal and repaint it which I’m not that crazy at all about doing. I don’t want the solution to become worse than the problem itself. I’m just wondering if anybody else has had any paint flaw situations where they could share their input with me and give me some advice on whether I should live with it or get it repaired. I also have some other issues with the hood alignment and driver door alignment however that’s a whole other thread LOL any input would be greatly appreciated.
Actually a good body shop painter will do a much better job than the factory. The problem is finding a good one. Factory paint jobs have more flaws than you can imagine. The paint used at the assembly plant is no different than what they use in most high quality body shops.
Agreed, but getting it to match the rest of the truck definitely requires skill, particularly with metallics.
Very true, especially with silver and light color metallics. A lot of inexperienced painters have problem with laying the metallic blends down correctly. Color can look great straight on but at an angle it doesn't match.
I got lucky with the bed alignment and (for the most part) the hood and fenders. I think; I'm not the most eagle-eyed with these things. But it is amazing how such basic things go awry in a truck that's been around for 10 years being built at multiple sites.
AGREE! i grew up in a body shop and guarantee they are not re painting the whole truck..Reshooting a section will result in it NEVER matching.
If that’s your experience then you grew up around a shop that took little pride in its work.
You dont kno me and i take offence to your bullshit running your mouth. any fool, except you obviously knows no matter how 'good' a shop is you will never be able to shoot a section to 100% match. saying it will proves you are a novice. Ive seen vehicles painted on the factory line that 2 weeks later tho supposedly the same color dont match 100%. spray nozzles degrade, get replaced/cleaned. particulate ratios vary just enough. So suk it you little piss ant POS.
